Wisdom Tooth Removal
You may need to have your wisdom teeth removed if you experience any of the following:
Teeth that are partially or fully trapped in your gums or jawbone.
Wisdom teeth that grow sideways or at an angle.
Persistent pain near the back of your mouth.
Difficulty cleaning around wisdom teeth, leading to trapped food and debris.
Development of gum disease, particularly around the molars.
Cavities in partially erupted wisdom teeth.
Fluid-filled sacs that form around wisdom teeth.
Pressure or damage to adjacent teeth or surrounding bone.
In some cases, we may recommend removing your wisdom teeth as a preventive measure, even if you don’t currently have any symptoms. This proactive approach can help reduce the risk of future problems such as infections and tooth decay.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Before your procedure, you will have a consultation with Dr Laurie Stumper. During this appointment, Dr Laurie Stumper will assess the health of your wisdom teeth using dental X-rays to determine their exact location. We will also discuss sedation options, which may include local anaesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), IV sedation, or general anaesthesia.
- Administer anaesthesia to numb your teeth and gums, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
- Make incisions in your gums if necessary to expose teeth trapped in your gums or jawbone.
- Carefully loosen and remove the wisdom teeth. In some cases, the teeth may be divided into sections for easier removal.
- Clean the area to prevent infection.
- Place stitches to close the surgical site, if needed.
- Apply gauze to control the bleeding.
Recovery from wisdom tooth removal typically takes one to two weeks, with most people resuming normal activities within three to five days. Follow postoperative instructions closely to ensure a smooth healing process.
Post-Procedure Care
After the procedure, you can expect some mild discomfort, slight bleeding, and swelling. We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to manage these side effects and ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some general tips:
Do:
- Use gauze to control bleeding for about 30 minutes post-surgery.
- Rest and recover at home for at least three to five days.
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Keep the surgical sites clean with alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash.
- Brush and floss the rest of your teeth to maintain overall oral hygiene.
- Take all prescribed medications as directed.
Don’t:
- Drink through a straw.
- Engage in strenuous exercise until cleared by your surgeon.
- Lift heavy objects.
- Eat hard, crunchy, or chewy foods.
- Consume carbonated or alcoholic beverages.
Contact us if you experience:
- A fever higher than 102°F (38.8°C)
- Excessive bleeding
- Severe pain unrelieved by medication
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Worsening swelling after three days
- Signs of infection (pus at the surgical site)
Schedule Your Consultation
At Thornbury Dental Wellness, we prioritise your health and comfort. If you suspect you may need wisdom teeth removal, schedule a consultation with Dr Laurie Stumper.
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Thornbury Dental Wellness Clinic
38 Hight Street, Thornbury
Bristol, BS35 2AJ